Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, expressed her humility upon discovering her Nigerian heritage during a meeting with women in Nigeria on Saturday. She shared her sentiments during an event focused on women in leadership, emphasizing the significance of her newfound connection to Nigeria.
“It’s been really eye-opening to be able to know more about my heritage and to be able to know this is just the beginning of my discovery,” Markle conveyed to the attendees, reflecting on the impact of a recent genealogy test.
Accompanied by her husband, British Prince Harry, the royal couple embarked on their first visit to Nigeria, advocating for mental health awareness among soldiers and young girls.
Markle’s acknowledgment of her Nigerian ancestry resonated with the Nigerian people. “What’s been echoed so much really in the past day by men and women alike is ‘Oh! We weren’t surprised when you found out you were Nigerian,'” she shared, acknowledging the qualities attributed to Nigerian women – bravery, resilience, courage, power, and beauty.
Renowned for her advocacy on women’s rights and gender equality, Markle underscored the importance of female leadership during the event held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. The gathering, co-hosted by Nigerian economist and head of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, underscored the crucial role of female empowerment in driving positive global change.
Discussions centered on mentorship for young women and the challenges women encounter in their careers. Markle emphasized the importance of successful women returning to their communities as role models for the next generation.
“Oftentimes, when women reach the peak of success, they leave. But you need to come back home, you need to at least be a familiar face for the next generation to say ‘Oh, she looks like me, and I can be that,'” Markle urged.
The royal couple’s three-day visit to Nigeria concludes on Sunday, leaving behind a message of empowerment and solidarity with the Nigerian people.
